xfeejayx

My car has been doing something that's been confusing me. It warms up just fine when just sitting there, but when i start driving, even 20 mph, it starts to cool off; The temp gauge needle goes down and the vent starts blowing cold air. I thought that if it was a thermostat issue, it would run too hot. but one of my friends told me that if thermostats fail, they fail in the 'open' position, so it makes the car run too cool. Which is it?
And, how hard is it to change a thermostat on one of these?
Thanks a lot

Mike Gerber

The thermostat can fail in either the open or closed position. If it fails in the open position, the car takes a long time to warm up and the car runs too cool. If it fails in the closed position, the car overheats.

Changing the thermostat is a fairly easy DIY repair. If you do this yourself, I would recommend getting an OEM thermostat and gasket. They are not much more money than aftermarket ones and are usually are better quality. You will also need a bit of antifreeze to replace some that will spill out (use a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water) and will have to bleed the cooling system when you are done. These are not hard things to do. I also recommend you get a Chiltons or Haynes manual for your car and read up on the procedure for changing the thermostat. If you feel comfortable with what you have read, then go ahead and do it.

Mike

nick bamberger

All cars I have ever seen, the temperature always drops in cold temperatures when traveling,because of the cold air making contact with the engine.. but will make more heat at idle, when there is little air blowing through the engine compartment.

Dont know about your problem, just a thought.

xfeejayx

yeap, ended up being the thermostat. i switched it out (which by the way is VERY VERY EASY on this very EASILY serviced car) and it fixed it right up. i do know that some cars cool a little cuz of cold weather, but this was bad, almost dropping of the temp gauge. if anyone else ever needs to change a thermostat on a 98 2.2L camry, it's right under the alternator, you can't miss it.